As we watch the events unfolding in Japan, we warmly invite you to pray with us using the following litany, either privately or in your places of worship in the days ahead.

A Litany For Japan

God is our refuge and strength, *
a very present help in trouble.2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be moved, *
and though the mountains be toppled into the
depths of the sea;
3 Though its waters rage and foam, *
and though the mountains tremble at its tumult.4 The Lord of hosts is with us; *
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
5 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, *
the holy habitation of the Most High.6 God is in the midst of her;
she shall not be overthrown; *
God shall help her at the break of day.
8 The Lord of hosts is with us; *
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.

Sovereign God, in your hands are the caverns of the earth and the heights of the hills, we pray for the people of Japan. For the dead and the missing. for those who search for loved ones and those whose homes, cities and fields have been turned to rubble. We pray for the stability of the nuclear power plants and ask you merciful protection on those who work in them. Finally we pray for our students, Luke and Yuko, Hikaru and Yoriko who grieve the devastation in their homeland.

Give the people of Japan strength to meet the days ahead. Open the hearts of the nations to come to their aid. Through your provision and blessing give them hope for their future, so that, in time, they may build up the ruined cities and be called repairers of the breech and the restorer of the streets to live in. We ask this in Christ’s name. Amen.